Dr. Mayer  Salama
Dr. Daniel Salama
Dr. Brendan Johnson

Dearborn MI- (313) 274-0990

Trenton MI- (734) 675-2440

Clarkson MI- (248) 625-1110

Farmington MI- (248) 474-0040

House Calls- (248) 474-0040

banner

The Different Sides to Barefoot Running

Linsey CorbinPro tri athlete Linsey Corbin, understands how far she needs to go when running, and says that barefoot runningis not an ideal alternative. When Corbin is working out on a grassy, smooth ground, she takes off her regular running shoes and goes barefoot.

"I don't think I could sustain the proper running mileage and type of mileage that I need to do as a professional triathlete with only barefoot running," Corbin said. However, even though many Americans have opted for barefoot running shoes since last year, the trend seems to be going downhill recently. The US accounts for about 4 percent of all minimalist running shoes sold year to date, according to Matt Powell an athletic-shoe analyst for SportsOneSource.  Minimalist and barefoot peaked last year. Most runners are returning to shoes that offer more cushion and stability,” said Powell.

Allowing your body time to adjust properly to barefoot running is essential, and part of this preventative care involves talking to a podiatrist like Dr. Mayer Salama of Salama Foot Care.  Dr. Salama can advise you on a running regimen, as well as provide information on techniques of barefoot running to help avoid foot pain, heel pain, and injury.

Barefoot Running

The Impact of Barefoot Running

-Running without shoes changes the motion of your running, as most running is done by landing on the heel of the feet.
-Running barefoot requires a different way of running; the landing is done on the front part of the feet.

The Advantages of Barefoot Running

-When running and landing on the front feet, the impact on the feet and ankle is reduced, this can reduce stress injuries.
-It strengthens muscles in the feet and ankles and the lower legs.
-Balance of the body is improved and there is a greater sensory input from the feet to the rest of the body.

The Drawbacks of Barefoot Running

-No protection while running, makes it likely that runners will land on sharp objects and scrapes, bruises and cuts on the feet will result.
-Blisters may form.
-Possibility of plantar fascia problems.
-Risk of getting Achilles tendonitis.

So what can runners do to make barefoot running safe? It’s best to make a slow transition from running shoes to barefoot running. Once the feet begin to adjust, try walking, then jogging and gradually increasing the distance. Minimalist running shoes may also be an option.

If you have any questions, please contact one of our offices located in Farmington Hills, Dearborn, Clarkston, and Trenton, MI. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

Read the full article on Barefoot Running.

Click to View Map & Directions

All our professionals maintain the highest levels of accreditation and pursue ongoing education to stay abreast of the latest trends in podiatry.

Contact Us